Linda M Cole

Linda was happiest when hiking in the mountains amongst the wild flowers. She had many other interests. Intrepid world traveller and great lover of birds and creatures of all stripes. She was a plant enthusiast who loved her garden and gardening. Linda was always a champion of the underdog and volunteered generously of her time to help others. Never allowing anyone to wallow in self pity, she just sprang into action even while dealing out tough love.

Linda was born in Leeds in the county of Yorkshire, England, and set off for Canada at the grand old age of 21. She settled first in Edmonton and then moved to Vancouver. Her first jobs were as a secretary, but that really wasn’t her preference, so she studied at the University of British Columbia and obtained a degree in botany. That led to a varied career, taking her to Alberta as a botanist, an environmental consultant and lastly as Manager of Environment at Indian Oil and Gas. In 2005, she officially retired and moved to Nanaimo, where her garden flourished and her friends multiplied.

Linda was much loved by her family, her niece Jean Stead and Jean’s husband Gordon, and great nephew Andrew Stead, who called his great aunt Linda "GAL”. This became a name of affection, and Jean and Gordon called her GAL too. Linda is very much missed by them as well as by her many friends, and especially by "Lucy" her faithful dog companion. Linda also is survived by her elder sister Barbara, and predeceased by her oldest sister Irene. A celebration of life will be held for her closest friends and family later in September.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Linda's memory to the Morrell Sanctuary Society, BC Parks Foundation, Birds Canada, or any other conservation organisation of your choice.